Professor Justin Caram of the University of California, Los Angeles

"Exploring the extremes of excitonic photophysics"

My group studies the extremes of excitonic absorption and emission in condensed phase chemical/semiconductor systems. We have two primary themes: 1) The use of self-organized nanoscale systems that have controlled light absorption and energy propagation; 2) Development of molecular/inorganic materials which absorb and emit from 1-2 microns, the Short-Wavelength Infrared (SWIR). In this talk, I will discuss some of our recent research projects in the group. One project focuses on the design of bright SWIR organic chromophores and assemblies. The second will discuss the role of strongly bound molecular-like excitons in 2D material derived optoelectronics. And the third will discuss our recent efforts in developing novel "liquid quantum cells" using ultra-narrow linewidth lanthanide complexes. All three are united by the dream of realizing absolute control over excitation and excitons in new materials.